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95
Rashes were more numerous with some batches of serum than
with others.
No cases of serum illness developed as a result of the serum
injections, though headaches, slight oedema, joint pains and a slight
rise of temperature occurred in some, these symptoms lasting for,
24 to 48 hours.
(4) Influence of Serum on Course of Disease.
This might be considered under the following:—
(a) Effect on Temperature.
The temperature usually came down rapidly after serum administration
but in some the fall was gradual, taking 2-7 days to reach
normal. In those cases to whom a second dose was given on
account of the first dose not affecting the temperature, no noticeable
effect was seen, the temperature and rash persisting. Possibly the
day of the disease on which the initial dose was administered
influenced the behaviour to serum.
(b) Length of Stay in Hospital.
Serum treated cases, 33.1 days.
Non-serum treated cases, 36.5 days.
It would appear, therefore, that serum did slightly shorten
the period of isolation in hospital.
(c) Reduction of Complications.
Complications in serum treated cases 34.8%
Complications in non-serum treated cases 33.3%